Tipperary Town serves as the official gateway to Galtee Mountains and is cosily nestled in the scenic and spectacular surroundings of Golden Vale, only 4 miles from the strikingly secluded of Glen of Aherlow.
The town of Tipperary is tucked between Slievenamuck Hill and Galtee Mountains, both of which have stunning scenic views that are perfect for those who are fans of pony-trekking and hill walking
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The 9th century market town of Tipperary originally started as an Anglo-Norman settlement. In fact, the motte and bailey that the Normans built is still seen in Tipperary to this day. The land that surrounds the area is renowned as a lush and rich agricultural expanse that is ideal for farming purposes.
In terms of architecture, Tipperary serves as the home to some striking buildings that date back to 19th century together with more decorative work that you will never be able to find in other parts of Ireland. This is also where you can see the fine collection of some well-kept storefronts, streetscapes, and historic buildings.
The town and the county’s name is derived from “Tiobraid Árann,” an Irish term that means “Well of Ara”
that refers to River Ara where the town is established. Unfortunately, the sacred ancient well is closed now but it was initially located in the town’s Bridge Street.
The population of Tipperary Town is currently at around 5,000 people. The ornate clocktower of the town stands tall in the heart of Mitchell Street where it overlooks the Market Yard. This quite charming structure punctuates the cultured and bustling history of Tipperary.
Originally, the clocktower was a part of Town Hall. This building was commissioned by the town’s landlords, the Smyth-Barry family. Boasting of a design in Jacobean Revival architectural style, Thomas Jackson, an architect based in Oxford, constructed the Town Hall in 1876.
During the 1940 New Year’s Eve, the Town Hall of Tipperary was turned into the Tower Ballroom, which is a sophisticated entertainment complex made up of a ballroom, theatre, and cinema. The venue transformed into a hub for live dances and social meetings and remains embedded in most relationships not only in the town itself but also in the nearby catchment area.
In 1941, a fire ravished the building of Tower Ballroom and when it happened again during the 70s, the edifice was officially demolished. Good thing that to this day, the quaint clocktower remains as a noteworthy and much cherished giant in the centre of the townscape.
For the longest time, Tipperary Town was associated with the song entitled “It’s a Long Way to Tipperary.” Jack Judge wrote the song during the early 1900s and this became the marching tune in World War I and both sides sung during the Great War.
However, the modern day Tipperary is best known for its efforts of promoting peaceful cooperation and peace on the international and national scene through the work of Tipperary Peace Convention.
Needless to say, Tipperary Town and its charm is something that will make you want to stay in the area for as long as possible
